What is search intent in SEO? Using different types of keyword intent

 

Known to the world as “user intent”, it is the “why” and “how” behind every search query. It is the basic idea for typing specific words into the search engine. The importance of creating content that resonates with your audience is the reason behind understanding search intent.

Have you ever wondered why search engines are used? The answer is simple, to find information, solve problems or make decisions. Furthermore, the intent can be divided into 4 main categories:

• Informational
• Navigational
• Transactional
• Commercial

Want to know more about these 4 main categories? Let’s discuss it in detail. 

4 types of Intent 

Informational Intent

When it comes to someone looking to learn about a specific product or a concept, like for instance you say, “hey, i want to learn something,” it is defined as Informational intent. People want detailed, accurate and reliable information to educate themselves before making a purchase.

Navigational Intent

It refers to people’s goal of finding a specific website or page, by entering its name or a specific keyword into a search engine. It shows people already know what they want and to look for. It means using search as a tool to reach it fast.

The search is focused, on a specific destination that people easily recognise, which is product names or brand names. Since it is so targeted, official websites and social profiles rank well and often occupy a lot of the SERP

Transactional intent

It is often described as a person’s aim to complete an action like making a purchase, or downloading a resource. Transactional intent simply means the user wants to engage in a specific transaction and is often looking for terms like buy, subscribe or get.

Commercial Intent

Commercial intent is often defined as when people are curious about a brand, product or service, it means the buying potential. Before making a purchase, people often look for information and are window shopping.

This is the “tell me more” phase. Search in this phase often includes:

• Comparing options.
• Reading reviews.
• Seeking recommendations to help make a smart choice.
• 
  

Final Thoughts

Understanding keyword intent is at the heart of successful SEO. When you align your content with what people are looking for — whether they want to learn, navigate, shop, or compare — you build trust, improve rankings, and create real connections.

So next time you’re working on your SEO strategy, pause and ask: What is the intent behind this keyword?

Once you get that right, everything else starts falling into place.